Ashton Court Estate The Downs

With over 1.6 million visits annually, Estate is 's Blaise Castle Estate is a magnificent 300 acre Grade II* registered Clifton and Durdham Downs (the Downs) are a fascinating Oldbury Court Estate is a beautiful and diverse 120 acre site, second busiest country park. Its Grade II* registered landscape, with landscape with over 5,000 years of history. A deep wooded 442-acre green space perched on the edge of . It was combining woodland valleys, historic parkland and surfaced paths 850 acres of woodland and grassland and, Grade I listed mansion limestone gorge, dramatic scenery and ancient monuments secured as an area for public use and enjoyment through an Act alongside the River Frome. It makes a great place for a family day rank amongst the country's finest. Once the home of the Smyth steeped in folklore, makes this estate one of the most magical of Parliament in May 1861. Established in November 1861, the out with large green spaces, sports pitches and an exciting family, Ashton Court Estate is now an easily accessible historic estate and romantic landscapes in the west country. With plenty to do present day Downs Committee comprising representatives of the innovative play area. only two miles from the centre of , much of which was for children as well as adults, it is easily possible to spend a Merchant Venturers and city council, is responsible for overseeing The Humphrey Repton influenced landscape and panoramic views designed by the great landscape designer Humphrey Repton. whole day enjoying its varied features and many facilities. management of the area. provide interesting short walks. For those seeking a longer A £6 million Heritage Lottery Fund supported project restored much Guided walk leaflets assist in exploring the estate. Visit the folly The wide open expanse of downland provides easy going access, challenge, the estate serves as the gateway to the adjacent Frome of this heritage, and created new visitor facilities including: café and castle, relax on the grasslands or wander through the gorge with opportunities to walk to features such as the Clifton Valley Walkway. This 19-mile path follows the wildlife rich River bistro, toilets, car parking, information/visitor centre and function with its gurgling brook, lakes and woodlands. The estate house Suspension Bridge, Observatory Tower, Bristol , and Frome upstream to the Cotswold Hills in . rooms for hire. During 2011, onsite maps, signage and information contains a museum of social history and an exhibition of the spectacular views of the Gorge. The Downs is a great place to A short walk downstream, crossing the Halfpenny Bridge leads leaflets will be developed, together with the launch of a new disc estate and adjacent . There is an extensive play relax and a popular area for jogging. It also plays host to big into , a tranquil area with picturesque former golf course, graded mountain bike trails and mobility buggies. area on site for children of all ages to enjoy. public events such as funfairs, circuses, sponsored runs and has 32 quarrymen’s cottages facing the river. The partial restoration of football pitches providing home to the Downs Football League, Discover the restored formal gardens, historic parkland and deer Established originally to help restore the castle folly, the estate Whitwood Mill provides the opportunity to view a working water one of the oldest in the country. parks with the magnificent old oak trees, all fantastic settings for is very fortunate in enjoying the support of the Friends of Blaise. wheel and unique egg ended boiler. relaxing, games and picnics. There are two 18-hole golf courses with This manifests itself through consultation, management of the International and national designations highlight the importance The Snuff Mills Action Group is an active local organisation stunning views across the city and a network of trails for walking, castle and financial contributions to specific projects. Practical of the wildlife and geology within the Avon Gorge. The Avon and working to improve Oldbury Court and Snuff Mills for people and mountain biking, horse riding, orienteering and other activities. work sessions are regularly held and anyone is welcome to Downs Wildlife Project was established in 1999 to conserve, wildlife. It campaigns on related issues, organises events and The estate is a venue for international events such as the Balloon attend. protect and increase peoples’ understanding of the wildlife in the practical tasks. Gorge and on the Downs. The Friends of the Downs and Avon Fiesta and International , and hosts a huge programme www.bristol.gov.uk/blaisecastleestate www.bristol.gov.uk/oldburycourtestate of charity and sporting events, theatre, exhibitions and guided walks Gorge are a well-established and active group who carry out and talks. important works across the Downs. www.ashtoncourtestate.com and www.bristol.gov.uk/thedowns www.ashtoncourtgolf.co.uk

Long Ashton, Bristol BS41 9JN. Kings Weston Road, Bristol BS10 7QS. Stoke Road, Durdham Down, Bristol BS9 1PG. Oldbury Court Road, , Bristol BS16 2JH. Tel: 0117 963 9174 Email: [email protected] Tel: 0117 353 2266 Email: [email protected] Tel: 0117 922 3719 Email: [email protected] Tel: 0117 922 3719 Email: [email protected] Family fun at Ashton Sit back and relax in Bristol’s parks this Court Golf Course summer Enjoy a round of golf with our summer family ticket offer, which is available from Friday, 1 July to Thursday, 1 September 2011 . Play Park A family ticket costs: • £10.50 - one adult and one junior This four acre site contains the biggest free play park in the South • £15 - one adult and two juniors of England. Located in the south of Bristol, the park is open throughout the year from 10am to dusk or 6pm/7pm depending on • £15.50 - two adults and one junior and time of year. • £20 - two adults and two juniors. The standout feature is the 12 metre high net dome containing slides, suspended web tunnels, cages and basket swings. Other zones contain challenging activity equipment such as zip wire, hamster wheel and spinning disc. There is a well-equipped toddler area in addition to sand and water play activities. The wheels park contains half pipes, ramps, bowls, boxes and rails. Grass and picnic Love Parks Week is the perfect excuse to get outdoors and enjoy the areas provide for less energetic relaxation. summer. We’re celebrating all that parks have to offer, so why not The park always has staff in attendance. In the school holidays a visit your local park during the campaign to show what it means to range of activities are organised such as egg hunts and face you? Visitors to six of Bristol’s most popular parks this summer painting to wheels events. A parent and toddler group meet In Bristol, park visitors can find special ‘Love Parks Week’ activities on can now hire a park deckchair, offering a new opportunity for regularly during term time on Thursday mornings from April to July. offer as well as award-winning parks to visit and a host of exciting family and friends to sit back, relax and enjoy the great outdoors and natural beauty of Bristol’s parks. www.bristol.gov.uk/hengrovepark play parks to explore. Activities include an Inspired Furniture Exhibition at Ashton Court Estate; hunt around Castle Hill at Blaise Bring the family and enjoy some great savings. We also offer free Deckchairs are just £1 to hire for an hour, £2.50 for Hengrove Way, Bristol BS14 0HR. Castle; an Islamic Cultural Fayre in ; and £1 off a round club hire, so there has never been a better time to give golf a try at half day (up to 4 hours) or £4 for the full day (up to 9.5 hours) Tel: 01275 836 946 Email: [email protected] of golf at Ashton Court Estate - Quote LOVEPARKS1OFF to receive the Ashton Court Estate. and are available for hire through to September 2011. discount during Love Parks Week. Offer valid from Saturday, 23 to Don’t forget, Ashton Court Estate has lots for all the family to see Over 400 deckchairs will be available for hire across six parks - Key to icons Sunday, 31 July 2011. Terms and conditions apply. and do, including the miniature railway and deer parks, so why not Canford Park, Castle Park, College Green, Oldbury Court Estate, Toilet facilities Dogs welcome Horse riding trails make it a great family day out for everyone? St George’s Park and Queen Square. Diamond Catering, who For more information on Love Parks Week, have refreshment kiosks in the parks, will manage the Disabled toilet Café Play area including details of events happening in www.ashtoncourtgolf.co.uk deckchair hire in partnership with “Get Decked” on behalf of Cycle racks Car parking Baby changing parks during the week, please visit Ashton Court Estate, , Bristol BS8 3PX. Tel: 0117 973 8508 the city council. Buggy friendly paths Cycle trails Coach parking www.loveparksweek.org.uk www.goplacestoplay.org.uk (Enter the estate through Clifton Lodge situated on the A369 Bristol - Portishead Road.) To find out more visit www.bristol.gov.uk/deckchairs

Useful telephone numbers Other event highlights How to find us Oldbury Court Estate s The Downs Westbury-on-Trym s and websites across Bristol’s parks N N Po rt Key ish Directions: Located in ea s Blaise Castle House Museum Pride 2011 d ge Bus stop Ashton Court Estate rid northwest Bristol. A3 n n B 6 fto io N 8 9 li ns 5 WWhhaatt''ss oonn gguuiiddee Tel: 0117 903 9818 C e 0 Saturday, 16 July, Castle Park sp 4 Numerous access points Clifton Lodge Su B www.bristol.gov.uk/museums Key car park which include the top of for Bristol's major parks and heritage estates This celebration of the lesbian, 9 Bus stop 2 1 3 Golf Course Whiteladies Road/Blackboy B gay, bisexual and transgender A Cafés in the parks 4 Hill (A4018) or from 0 1 Why not visit one of our many community features music, 8 July to December 2011 comedy, dance and performance Westbury Road (A4018). Blackboy park cafés Mansion art. For details call 0117 090 5715 car park Hill www.bristol.gov.uk/parkscafes Mansion and or visit www.pridebristol.org Visitor Centre Go Places to Play 6 7 Islamic Cultural Fayre A By bus: the 1 4 4

P A Explore your local play park R Church Lodge o i following services v r car park t Sunday, 24 July, 12noon-6pm, e w car park r www.goplacestoplay.org.uk g ss A a 8 n Snu Mills y 2 a v Eastville Park 1 Lo P all run past The B3 0 By & car park o 37 n n A to sh Downs - 1, 40, 40a, Local nature reserves Family event open to everyone. Clevedon A 41, 54, 586, 587, Get close to nature by visiting The fayre will include information U5, U6, U6A and these special places stalls, employment/career stands, Directions: Located to the west of Bristol. Main access is from Kennel Fishponds Lodge Road, off Clanage Road (A369). Other car parks can be accessed Directions: Located in northeast Bristol. Car park is off Oldbury Court Road 624 and stop at top Key www.bristol.gov.uk/localnature food stalls, books, clothing, gifts whilst Snuff Mills car park is at end of River View, Stapleton, BS16 1DL. of Blackboy Hill. n n Bus stop off Abbots Leigh Road (A369) or Ashton Road (B3128). fto sio and other Islamic paraphernalia. Cli en reserves sp By bus: the following services stop in Long Ashton - 350, 351, 353, By bus: the following services stop in Vassall Road - 5. Fishponds Road - Su e idg For details visit Br Tennis in the parks www.bmcs.org.uk 354, 355, 357, 362 and 363. 358 and 359 in . 48 and 49. 581 between Parkway and .

le Tennis coaching courses for adults ow For a full list of events taking s Kn Directions: Located Blaise Castle Estate s Directions: Located in Hengrove Play Park Tel: 0117 922 2789 museum ay place in Bristol’s parks visit N N e W in southwest Bristol. play ov northwest Bristol. Main gr area en www.bristol.gov.uk/tennisintheparks H www.bristol.gov.uk/parklife 74 Main access is car park is located off 41 car park B A 57 4 40 0 through the Leisure Tree Bristol Bristol boasts a wide range of B 5 the Kings Weston Road 5 Park off Hengrove Sponsor a tree parks and greens spaces suitable (B4057). Access via B castle e d Way (A4174). for days out. Call 0117 922 3719 A4162 off Portway, m i Tel: 0117 352 5638 n Hengrove s t Leisure e for information or visit r www.bristol.gov.uk/treebristol Henbury Road (B4055) Park and www.bristol.gov.uk/parks car park or from M5, J17, play area following A4018 to Did you know… that spending as little as five minutes in a green Bristol Henbury. Smaller car space such as a park can make you feel better? park located at Coombe For ideas go to www.bristol.gov.uk/greenfun

Dingle off The Dingle. e i l c t r Key a If you would like this information in a different format, for By bus: the following services H Ashton Court Estate • Blaise Castle Estate • Coombe Bus stop stop at the estate - 1, 40, 41, 76, By bus: the following example, Braille, audio CD, large print, electronic, BSL DVD Dingle car park The Downs • Hengrove Play Park • or community languages, please contact us 0117 353 2266. 76A, 517, 578, 584, 585 and 624. services stop at this site - Key Wh itc Bus stop Oldbury Court Estate All maps copyright of Bristol Design, Bristol City Council hu 20, 36, 51, 75, 76 and 90. rch Key to sites A guide to what's on in Bristol's major parks and heritage estates - July to December 2011 AshtonCourtEstate TheDowns BlaiseCastleEstate HengrovePlayPark

Thursday,4- DinosaurDetectives Saturday,24andSunday,25- GoodwoodFestival Sunday,30- GhostStoriesandSupernaturalHappenings JULY 10.30am-12.30pm or 1.30-3.30pm, details given on booking, £4 Meet at stables courtyard, contact for further details. Forest of Avon craft stalls 3pm, meeting place given on booking, £4 per person (includes refreshments) Have lots of fun learning about Bristol’s very own dinosaur. including pencil making, wood carving together with an exhibition of furniture Prepare to be frightened as historian, Anton Bantock, tingles spines with his Friday,1andSaturday,2- RomeoandJuliet: OpenAirTheatre Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 and sculptures. Demonstrations in charcoal making, timber milling and horse stories of ghostly goings-on in the estate. Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] 7.30pm, dairy garden, Friday £15 adult / £10 concessions (U16 and OAP), Thursday,4- FunkyPuppetShow logging as well as bushcraft and environmental games. Saturday: All tickets £15. To book call 01753 714 000 Contact 0117 966 4432 or email offi[email protected] Sunday,30- HalloweenCreativeWorkshop GB Theatre Company present Shakespeare’s famous love story. 1pm and 2.30pm, dairy garden, £1 per child - pay on the gate Sunday,25- Gorge-ousGeologyWalk Visit www.bristolshakespeare.org.uk for further details These shows are a mixture of colourful comedy puppets and magic. 2-4pm, meeting place given on booking, £3 per child. Witches, wizards and Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details 10.30am-12.30pm, details given on booking, £4 monsters: come and create some special spooky crafts. Sunday,3- EstateGuidedWalk Suitable for children 3-12 years old. Tuesday,9- MrBrown’sPigPiratePantomimeShows Explore the fascinating geology of the Avon Gorge. 10.30am, meet at car park, £4 per person Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] 1pm and 2.30pm, dairy garden, £1 per child - pay on the gate Come and discover the lost landscapes of Kingsweston Estate. Monday,31- HalloweenShows Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details A one-man pirate pantomime show featuring comedy, music, puppets and Sunday,25- ConservationClub:HorseTrail mayhem. Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details 10.30am-1pm, meeting place given on booking, free. Join the rangers to help 4.30pm and 6.15pm, dairy garden, £2.50 per person, pre-booking essential Thursday,7toSaturday9,Thursday,14andFriday,15 Please note second show will be slightly scarier than first. Join Mr Brown’s Pig Thursday,11- TreeTribes(8to12yearolds) maintain the horse trail. Refreshments and tools will be provided. KingLear-TrialofTears:OpenAirTheatre Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] for spooky stories and Halloween fun. 10am-3.30pm, details given on booking, £8.50 7pm (matinee 9 July, 1pm), the sunken gardens, £10 adult, £6.75 concessions and Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details and tickets Discover facts and myths about trees and make tree-mendous puppets. Sunday,25- HoundsintheGrounds child. Contact 0117 929 9008 or visit www.bristolticketshop.co.uk Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 11am-4pm. Join in this family fun-filled day to celebrate dogs and raise money NOVEMBER Thursday,7and14- ConservationClub:RagwortControl Thursday,11toSunday,14- BristolInternationalBalloonFiesta for local animal charities. Activities include sponsored dog walk, dog 10.30am-1pm, meeting place given on booking, free. Join the rangers to help demonstrations, fun dog show, ferret racing and much more. Thursday,3- ConservationClub:SeatInstallation The Showground, free entry (parking charge). The balloon extravaganza has keep the estate ragwort free. Refreshments and tools will be provided. Contact Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details 10.30am-12noon and 1-2.30pm, meeting place given on booking, free a fun-packed programme of events including the Night Glow and mass Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] Come and help the rangers install benches in the estate grounds and gardens. balloon ascends. Visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk for further details Tuesday,27- OwlProwl Thursday,7- HerbsforHealthGuidedWalk Refreshments and tools are provided. Thursday,11- TallulahSwirlsPuppetTheatre 7pm, pre-booking essential, meeting place given on booking, £5 adult, £2.50 Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] 7-8.30pm, details given on booking, £5 per person (includes refreshments) child. The wooded gorge should provide the ideal stage for owls to be revealed 1pm and 2.30pm, dairy garden, £1 per child - pay on the gate Learn about the herbs that will heal with medical herbalist, Sue Redfern. by Ian McQuire. Blaise Estate Office on 0117 353 2266 for details and bookings Saturday,5- ForageforFungi Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] Embark on puppet journeys with Suzie Sparkle and Mavis the green giant. 2-4pm, meeting place given on booking, £5 per adult, £2.50 per child Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Friday,30andSaturday,1October- IdentifyingFungi1 Wander around the woodlands whilst foraging for fungi with expert Justin Smith. Sunday,10- MiniatureRailway Tuesday,16 - HumblePiePuppetPantomime 7-9pm (Fri) and 10am-3.30pm (Sat), details given on booking, £25 Learn to identify mushrooms that are edible. 12noon-5.15pm, weather permitting, 60p a circuit or 10 tickets for £5 An introduction to fungi including a talk and fungal foray. Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] Train rides for all the family on two tracks. 1pm and 2.30pm, dairy garden, £1 per child - pay on the gate. Get involved in Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 Contact Miniature Railway on 0117 946 7110 the world of humble pie, where stories are brought alive by music, magic and Sunday,6- HiddenBlaiseGuidedWalk audience participation. Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details 10.30am-12noon, meet at Blaise café, free Wednesday,13- TallTalesforLittlePeople(3to5yearolds) Thursday,18- BusyBuzzyBees(8to12yearolds) OCTOBER Discover hidden places around Blaise with an estate ranger. 10.30am-1.30pm, details given on booking, £4 per child Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details A short walk accompanied by stories. Please bring a picnic. 10am-3.30pm, details given on booking, £8.50 Saturday,1- BlaisePracticalTasks:WoodlandManagement Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 Play amazing bee games and make a bee home for your garden. Tuesday,8- TheDownsThroughtheAgesTalk Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 10am-1pm, meet outside the estate house, free 7-8pm, Gardens, £3 Friday,15andSaturday,16- Macbeth:OpenAirTheatre Help remove young trees/scrub to maintain the historic landscape. Thursday,18- PunchandJudyShows Find out about the changing uses and appearance of The Downs. 7.30pm, dairy garden. In advance: £16 adults, £10 concessions and child. On the Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 door £18 adults, £12 concessions and child. Shakespeare’s dark tragedy with a 1pm and 2.30pm, dairy garden, £1 per child - pay on the gate comedy twist performed by Oddsocks. To book and for more details visit Watch the mischief of Punch in these classic shows. Sunday,2- ForageforFungi Sunday,20- AshtonCourtEstateFarmers'Market www.oddsocks.co.uk/theatre Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details 10.30am-12.30pm, meeting place given on booking, £5 per adult, £2.50 per child 10.30am-2.30pm, stables courtyard, free entry. The regular monthly farmers' Wander around the woodlands whilst foraging for fungi with expert Justin Smith. market, selling the finest food and drink made in the west country. Saturday,16toSunday,24- InspiredFurnitureExhibition Saturday,20- SummerStrollandTreeGazing Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] Contact Sophie Bowden on 07961 326 187 or email [email protected] 10am-4.30pm, The Hayloft, visitor centre, free entry. An exhibition of bespoke, 2-4pm, meeting place given on booking, £4 per person handcrafted furniture made by some of today’s best established and promising Discover the magnificent and ancient trees including the historic Domesday Oak. Sunday,2- KingswestonEstateGuidedWalk Thursday,24- OwlProwl new designer/makers. Contact Sue Darlison on [email protected] Walk led by expert, Tony Titchen. Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or 10.30am, meet at Shirehampton car park, £4 per person 6pm, meeting place given on booking, £5 adult, £2.50 child email [email protected] Enjoy a magical evening as Ian McQuire summons the tawny and barn owls from Sunday,17- VikingsandSaxons,CastleOpen Come and see the lost landscapes of Kingsweston Estate. Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details the trees to swoop overhead - hopefully. 2.30pm, Blaise folly castle, free entry (donations welcome) Saturday,20andSunday,21 - OrienteeringforBeginners Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] Watch Vikings and Saxons in all their finery re-enact our history against the 1-3pm, stables courtyard, free, orienteering maps £1.50 Saturday,8- ConservationClub:HorseTrail Saturday,26- PostcardPromenadeWalk castle folly walls. Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Coaching from Bristol Orienteering Klub on how to use the orienteering course. 10.30am-1pm, meeting place given on booking, free. Join the rangers to help 10.30am-12.30pm, details given on booking, £4 Sunday,17- AshtonCourtEstateFarmers’Market Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] maintain the horse trail. Refreshments and tools will be provided. Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] Discover how The Downs have changed through time. 10.30am-2.30pm, stables courtyard, free entry. The regular monthly farmers’ Sunday,21- AshtonCourtEstateFarmers’Market Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 market, selling the finest food and drink made in the west country. 10.30am-2.30pm, stables courtyard, free entry. The regular monthly farmers’ Tuesday,11- GoatsintheGullyTalk Contact Sophie Bowden on 07961 326 187 or email [email protected] market, selling the finest food and drink made in the west country. 7-8pm, Bristol Zoo Gardens, £3 DECEMBER Sunday,17- PhotographyMadeSimple Contact Sophie Bowden on 07961 326 187 or email [email protected] Find out about the Avon Gorge’s new hairy conservationists. Friday,2and9- PracticalWoodlandManagement 10am-5pm, meeting place and cost given on booking Sunday,21- MusicintheDairy Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 Courses teaching beginners to learn and enjoy photography. 2-4pm, dairy garden, free entry (donations welcome) 10am-1pm, pre-booking essential as limited numbers, free Thursday,13- ConservationClub:WoodlandTrailsDay Help manage New Barn Wood. Training, tools and refreshments provided. Contact 0845 459 2534 or email [email protected] Sit back and enjoy music by Alan’s Jazz Men. 10.30am-1pm, meeting place given on booking, free Contact Jim O’Shaughnessy on 0117 966 4318 Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Wednesday,20andThursday,21- TheTamingoftheShrew: Come and help the rangers keep the woodland trails clear. Saturday,3- BlaisePracticalTasks:WoodlandManagement OpenAirTheatre Sunday21,28,Saturday,27andMonday,29- CastleOpen Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] 10am-1pm, meet outside the estate house, free 7.30pm, the sunken garden, £12.50 per adult, £10 concession, £8.50 child 2-4.30pm, Blaise folly castle, free entry Saturday,15- MeettheGoatKeepers Help remove young trees/scrub to maintain the historic landscape. (5-16 years). Heartbreak Productions present The Taming of the Shrew in the See inside this folly castle and the views it offers. 10.30am-12noon, details given on booking, £3 Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 3532266 estate garden. Visit www.heartbreakproductions.co.uk for further details Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Find out about the new Avon Gorge goats with their keepers. Saturday,3andSunday,4- ChristmasCraftFair Sunday,24- SummerWalkabout Tuesday,23- HistoricTreeGazingonZooBanks Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 10am-4.30pm, The Hayloft, visitor centre. An array of high quality, handmade 10am-1pm, meeting point given on booking, £5 per adult and £2.50 per child 6.30-8.30pm, details given on booking, £4 Explore the trees on a guided walk through the estate, with nature games and Saturday,15- WinterBalmsandTonics arts and crafts stalls. The ideal place to find those unique, festive gifts. Discover how The Downs’ leafy landscape has changed since Victorian times. Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] tree tales. Contact Jim O’Shaughnessey on 0117 966 4318 Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 2-4.30pm, meeting place given on booking, £10 per adult A hands-on workshop with herbalist, Julia Green. Sunday,24- MiniatureRailway Sunday,4- CreativeFestiveWorkshop Tuesday,23andWednesday,24- SnowWhite:OpenAirTheatre Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] 12noon-5.15pm, weather permitting, 60p a circuit or 10 tickets for £5 11.30am-3.30pm, meeting place given on booking, £3 per child 6.30pm start, doors open from 6pm, dairy garden, £11 adult, £7 child, £32 family Create your own festive decorations and gifts. Train rides for all the family on two tracks. A beloved fairytale presented by Chapterhouse Theatre Company. Saturday,15- WinterTreeIdentification Contact Miniature Railway on 0117 946 7110 Suitable for children 3-12 years old, parents also welcome. Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 or visit www.chapterhouse.org 1-3pm, meeting place given on booking, £4 per person Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] Tuesday,26- TallulahSwirlsPuppetTheatre(Newshow)– for details and bookings A walk around the estate discovering the ancient, magnificent trees, including the estate’s Domesday Oak, led by expert, Tony Titchen. Sunday,4- GuidedDeerWalk “WhenEggieMetPeggie” Thursday,25- GuidedDeerWalk Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] 10.30- 11.30 am, meeting place given on booking, pre-booking essential, free 1pm and 2.30pm, dairy garden, £1 per child - pay on the gate 10.30-11.30am, details given on booking, free Learn about the deer and see them up close (hopefully!) as you join our ranger A delicious puppet show all about growing your food, loving it and eating it all Join our ranger for a guided walk through the deer parks. Sunday,16- AshtonCourtEstateFarmers’Market for a guided walk through the red and fallow deer parks. up. Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] 10.30am-2.30pm, stables courtyard, free entry. The regular monthly farmers’ Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] market, selling the finest food and drink made in the west country. Wednesday,27- HuntaroundCastleHill Thursday,25- MrBrown’sPig,SirRandolphRamsbottomShows Contact Sophie Bowden on 07961 326 187 or email [email protected] Tuesday,6- RobinsandMistletoeTalk 12.30-3.30pm, Blaise folly castle, free entry 1pm and 2.30pm, dairy garden, £1 per child - pay on the gate 7-8.30pm, Bristol Zoo Gardens, £4 (includes drink and mince pie) Pick up a map at the castle and follow the clues around Castle Hill. Fun-filled shows involving kings, princesses, wizards and jesters. Sunday,16- CastleOpen Discover the stories and symbolism behind Christmas plants and animals. Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details 2-4.30pm, Blaise folly castle, free entry Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 Wednesday,27- TwelfthNight:OpenAirTheatre Friday,26- MothMagicWalk See inside this folly castle and the views it offers. Thursday,8- OwlProwl Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details 7.30pm, dairy garden, £12 adult / £7 concessions and U16, £30 family. To book 9-11pm, details given on booking, £4 6pm, meeting place given on booking, £5 adult, £2.50 child call 07785 947823 or visit www.takingflighttheatre.com Meet some of The Downs’ nocturnal residents. Thursday,20- ConservationClub:WoodlandTrailsDay Enjoy a magical evening as Ian McQuire summons the tawny and barn owls from Taking Flight, the UKs only integrated outdoor theatre company presents Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 10.30am-1pm, meeting place given on booking, free. Come and help the rangers the trees to swoop overhead - hopefully. Shakespeare’s bittersweet comedy. Promenade performance with live music. Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] Visit www.bristolshakespeare.org.uk for further details maintain the woodland trails. Refreshments and tools are provided. SEPTEMBER Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] Saturday,10- CreatingChristmasGarlands Thursday,28- MammalDetectives(8to12yearolds) Saturday,22- WoodlandSculptureDay 10am-3.30pm, details given on booking, £38 (including materials) 10am-3.30pm, details given on booking, £8.50 Saturday,3andSunday,4- BristolInternationalKiteFestival Get into the Christmas spirit on this practical workshop. Children’s holiday event including a mammal trail and t-shirt printing. 11am-5pm, The Plateau, free entry, car parking £7 10am-4pm, details given on booking, £15 per person. Join a sculptor and a Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 Fantastic flying displays, kite workshops and family fun. forester for a day of woodland activities. Bring a picnic. Tools and materials are provided. Contact Jim O’Shaughnessey on 0117 966 4318 Saturday,10- ChristmasDecorationWorkshop Thursday,28- PunchandJudyShows Contact Bristol Kitestore on 0117 974 5010 or visit www.kite-festival.org.uk 9.45am-12noon and 1-3.15pm, Blaise museum, £10 per person, per session Tuesday,25- OwlProwl 1pm and 2.30pm, dairy garden, £1 per child - pay on the gate Sunday,4- HiddenBlaiseGuidedWalk Join artists making natural material Christmas garlands and wreaths. Watch the mischief of Punch in these classic shows. 10.30am-12noon, meet at Blaise café, free 6pm, meeting place given on booking, £5 adult, £2.50 child Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Enjoy a magical evening as Ian McQuire summons the tawny and barn owls from Discover hidden places around Blaise with an estate ranger. Sunday,18- AshtonCourtEstateFarmers'Market Sunday,31- TheArchitecturalEvolutionofAshtonCourt Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details the trees to swoop overhead - hopefully. Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] 10.30am-2.30pm, stables courtyard, free entry. The regular monthly farmers' 3-4.30pm, details given on booking, £4 per person (includes refreshments) Saturday,10andSunday,18- CastleOpen market, selling the finest festive food and drink made in the west country. ` Fascinating presentation by historian, Anton Bantock. 2-4.30pm, Blaise folly castle, free entry Wednesday,26- ConservationinAfrica Contact Sophie Bowden on 07961 326 187 or s [email protected] Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] See inside this folly castle and the views it offers. 7.30pm, Blaise Museum Picture Room, £7.50 (includes light refreshment) Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Illustrated talk by Michael Thompson on links between conservation in Blaise AUGUST and the Maasai Mara, Kenya. Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 Saturday,17- StartingaHerbalMedicineChest General information Tuesday,2- MrBrown’sPigPuppetShow 2-4.30pm, meeting place given on booking, £10 per adult Thursday,27- AutumnAntics(8to12yearolds) We have tried to ensure that all event details are accurate and up to A hands-on workshop with herbalist, Sue Redfern. 10am-3.30pm, details given on booking, £8.50 date. However, before planning and making your journey, we advise 1pm and 2.30pm, dairy garden, £1 per child - pay on the gate Contact Ashton Court on 0117 963 9174 or email [email protected] you to call us or check www.bristol.gov.uk/parklife which will Enjoy fun-filled stories with Mr Brown’s pig. Create colourful autumn art and make a magical leaf lantern. Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 contain up to date information on any changes or cancellations to the Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Sunday,18- AshtonCourtEstateFarmers’Market published programme. Children must be accompanied by an adult for Wednesday,3- WheelsEvent 10.30am-2.30pm, stables courtyard, free entry. The regular monthly farmers’ Friday,28andSaturday,29- IdentifyingFungi2 all events. market, selling the finest food and drink made in the west country. 10am-5pm, Hengrove Play Park, free 7-9pm (Fri) and 10am-3.30pm (Sat), details given on booking, £25 Contact Sophie Bowden on 07961 326 187 or email [email protected] Public transport Wheels competition including skates, scooters, skate boards and BMX. A practical course to learn to identify fungi. Many of our park and estate sites are served by public transport. Contact play park office on 01275 836946 Friday,23andSaturday,24- IdentifyingBirdsalongtheAvon Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 Call Traveline South West on 0871 200 2233 for more information Wednesday3,10and17- HuntaroundCastleHill 7-9pm (Fri) and 2.15-6.45pm (Sat), details given on booking, £30 Sunday,30- AutumnWalkabout An introduction to bird watching including a talk and a boat trip. or visit www.traveline.info. 12.30-3.30pm, Blaise folly castle, free entry 10am-1pm, £5 per adult and £2 per child. Explore the trees with Emily and Jim Contact Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 Pick up a map at the castle and follow the clues around Castle Hill. on a guided walk through the estate, with nature games and tree tales as we go. For all your travel needs in Bristol visit www.travelbristol.org Contact Blaise Estate office on 0117 353 2266 for details Contact Jim O’Shaughnessy on 0117 966 4318